The Longmont Youth Wind Ensemble has a new director this year, Laura Caruthers. Ms. Caruthers arrived to us in August from Connecticut, where she taught elementary and middle school instrumental music. She is a graduate of Ithaca College and is now pursuing her Master’s Degree in Music Education and Clarinet Performance at CU Boulder.

Ms. Caruthers is passionate about helping students become more involved in music, improve their skills, and have as much fun as possible. “I love to meet kids where they are in their musical development,” says Ms. Caruthers. “There’s always room for growth, regardless of one’s playing level.” Her goals for the year also include building a well-balanced ensemble (she is currently seeking flute, oboe, French horn, trumpet, trombone, and tuba players) and helping students understand the difference between wind ensemble and orchestral styles. “I really love being here,” Ms. Caruthers says of her new position at LYS. “Everyone has been very welcoming.”